Prior to venturing into the real estate industry, I followed a diverse career path that equipped me with the skills and experiences that make me a great real estate agent today. Right after high school, I worked as a switchboard operator, where I managed over 200 lines alongside one other switchboard operator. This role was instrumental in shaping my customer service skills and instilling a sense of professionalism. Subsequently, I transitioned into the position of office manager for one of our answering service clients, where I gained insights into marketing strategies, honed my proficiency in MS Office applications, and further developed my customer service expertise. I was in this position for 5 years before changing my career path. Building on this foundation, I went on to serve as the office manager for a local CPA, where I not only managed the office, I learned to prepare taxes, financial statements, and the how to operate a business. This five-year experience provided me with a deep understanding of financial matters and the fundamentals of running a successful enterprise. My boss was the President of the Medina Chamber of Commerce at the time. This allowed for me to attend local professional events and learn networking skills and better understand the importance of building professional relationships. After I had my first daughter in 2001, I started my own business designing custom jewelry. It was during this time that my husband and I began exploring the idea of investing in a rental property. In this pursuit, I took the lead in conducting extensive research on various homes and investment opportunities. As I delved deeper into the world of real estate, I found that I was not only passionate about it but also felt that I often had a more understanding of the properties than the agent I was working with. This realization became a turning point for me. I made the decision to obtain my real estate license and start my career as a real estate agent in 2011. My background in custom jewelry design had given me a strong foundation in creativity, attention to detail, and customer service, all of which I believed could be effectively applied to the real estate industry. Thus, my transition into real estate was motivated by a passion for the field and a commitment to offering a high standard of service to my clients. Upon establishing my own jewelry company, I expanded my knowledge and abilities. In addition to designing custom jewelry, I took on responsibilities such as photography, branding, and the creation of my own retail website. These experiences were pivotal in enhancing my creativity, marketing acumen, and digital proficiency. All of these diverse experiences have contributed to what makes me a highly effective real estate agent. My background in customer service, marketing, financial management, and entrepreneurship has enriched my skill set and enables me to provide exceptional service to my clients in the real estate industry.

In my real estate business, like any other, I've encountered several challenges that I've had to navigate. Challenges such as Market Fluctuations, Competition, Economic Factors, Client Expectations, Legal and Regulatory Changes, Time Management, Technology and Marketing. The biggest challenge right now are economic factors Interest rates and overall financial stability is having a huge impact on the real estate market. Adapting to these factors and helping clients navigate them is a challenge I regularly face. Despite these challenges, I view them as opportunities for growth and improvement. Each obstacle has allowed me to learn, adapt, and become a more proficient real estate agent, ultimately serving my clients more effectively.

Over the course of my real estate career, I have had the opportunity to work with two different brokerages, each offering a unique set of pros and cons. My initial experience was with a long-established, small brokerage that had been in business for a significant amount of time. I joined this brokerage based on a friend's recommendation, and I didn't explore other options when obtaining my real estate license. The pros of this brokerage were the personal relationships I formed, especially with the broker, who has over 50 years of experience in the industry. I gained invaluable insights and knowledge during my time there. However, the cons became evident as I grew in my real estate career. The brokerage struggled to keep up with modern technology and industry changes. There was a lack of training and the environment was not conducive to my ambitions of becoming a high-performing agent. Despite the personal connections, I recognized the need to seek a brokerage that aligned better with my professional goals. After a year in the business, I transitioned to M.C. Real Estate, a local boutique brokerage, which has been a transformative experience. The pros of this transition have been numerous. The brokerage is owned by the Marquard family, who are deeply involved in the local community and the real estate industry. Their commitment to both areas drew me to their brokerage. The environment at M.C. Real Estate is vibrant and conducive to my growth as an agent. My broker is young, dynamic, and actively engaged in professional organizations like the Medina County Board of Realtors, our regional MLS board, and Ohio Realtors. He is readily available and offers valuable support when needed. His brother, who serves as my manager, has been a tremendous source of guidance and support. He’s the reason I ultimately made this change. In summary, my journey through different brokerages has allowed me to appreciate the unique qualities and experiences each one offers. While I am grateful for the knowledge I gained from my initial brokerage and the friendships I developed, my move to M.C. Real Estate has provided the professional environment and support that aligns perfectly with my aspirations and values as a real estate agent.

2024 | I was just elected to service as a Village Council Member for The Village of Chippewa Lake, Ohio; 2023 | Featured in Real Estate Marketing & Technology Magazine as an Industry Leader; 2022-2023 | President Elect, Medina County Board of REALTORS [MCBOR]; 2022-2023 | Vice President, Medina County Board of REALTORS; 2021-2022 | Director, Medina County Board of REALTORS; 2021-2023 | Ohio REALTORS® Alternate Director; 2021 | Featured in Real Producer Magazine as a Top Producer in Northeast Ohio; 2018-2023 | Member Medina Area Chamber of Commerce; 2022-2023 | Member Medina County Economic Development Corporation; 2019-2023 | Ambassador Medina Area Chamber of Commerce; 2016-2023 | MCBOR Long Range Planning Task Force; 2014-2016 | Director, Medina County Board of REALTORS®; 2014-2023 | MCBOR Sales Volume Award; 2014-2023 | MCBOR Honor Society Award; 2015-2023 | Ohio Associations of REALTORS® President’s Sales Club Award; 2012-2023 | RPAC Capital Club; 2012 | MCBOR Tomorrow’s Leader Today Recipient; 2012 | MCBOR “Rookie of the Year”; 2018-2023 | Certified Senior Real Estate Specialist [SRES®]; 2011-2023 | Member National Association of REALTORS®; 2011-2023 | Member Ohio Association of REALTORS® [OAR]; 2011-2023 | Member Medina County Board of REALTORS® [MCBOR]; 2011-2023 | Member REALTORS® Political Action Committee [RPAC]; 2011-2023 | Member of the Northern Ohio Regional Multiple Listing Service; 2020-2023 | Chippewa Lake Lions Club Member & Social Media Director; 2016-2019 | Silver Sponsor Medina Athletic Boosters

The proudest moment of my career occurred when my daughter, who had witnessed my journey as a Realtor since she was just 10 years old, decided to follow in my footsteps and pursue a career in real estate. Her decision to become a Realtor was a testament to the passion and dedication she had seen in my work, and her desire to make a career that she could love and that would help people. Ultimately as a Realtor, it is your job to help people transition from one home to another. That is what I love about my job, helping people. What made this moment even more special was when she was awarded Rookie of the Year in January 2022, just as I had been awarded Rookie of the Year in 2012, a decade earlier. Watching her achieve this recognition, following in my footsteps, and demonstrating her commitment to the profession was an incredibly proud and gratifying experience. It symbolized the passing of the torch and the continuation of a legacy in the real estate industry, making it the proudest moment of my career.

In my real estate business, I leverage a range of technology tools and platforms to enhance the overall customer experience. Some of the key technologies I utilize include: DeltaNet: I use DeltaNet not only for website design but also as my Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. This helps me streamline client interactions, manage data, and stay organized throughout the entire real estate process. Canva: Canva is a valuable resource for designing eye-catching marketing materials. It allows me to create visually appealing content, from brochures to social media graphics, to effectively market properties and engage with potential buyers and sellers. AI-Powered Tools: I employ AI technology to assist in crafting listing descriptions. This ensures that my property listings are engaging and informative, enhancing the online presence of my listings. Social Media: Utilizing various social media platforms, I maximize the visibility of my clients' properties. This approach enables me to reach a broader audience and connect with potential buyers and sellers. 360 Camera: I own and use a 360-degree camera to capture immersive virtual tours of my listings. This technology allows clients to experience properties as if they were physically present, making the home-buying process more interactive and convenient. Drone: I’m working towards getting my drone license. I own a drone but I’m not currently utilizing it. In the event I have a need for drone photography and my drone photographer isn’t available, I want to be able to still provide this service to my clients. Wireless Microphone: To produce professional-quality videos, I use a wireless microphone. This ensures clear audio during property tours and marketing videos, contributing to a polished and engaging presentation. Ongoing Education: Staying up-to-date with the latest marketing and technology trends is crucial. I actively seek knowledge and insights from industry experts like Jason Pantana to continually enhance my marketing strategies and technological proficiency. By incorporating these technologies into my real estate business, I aim to provide clients with a more comprehensive, efficient, and engaging experience throughout their buying or selling journey. These tools not only facilitate smoother transactions but also elevate the quality and impact of my marketing efforts.

In today's digital age, acquiring positive online reviews is of utmost importance. These reviews significantly impact my real estate business in various ways. They establish trust and credibility with potential clients, as many seek the experiences of others when choosing a real estate agent. Moreover, online reviews enhance my online visibility, making it easier for clients to find me on search engines. They also contribute to my overall reputation as a real estate professional, highlighting my dedication to exceptional customer service. To ensure a robust online presence through reviews, I employ several strategies. I actively request reviews from both clients and colleagues, as satisfied clients are often willing to share their positive experiences. Additionally, I engage with the local community by leaving reviews for local businesses, fostering authenticity in the eyes of search engines. My focus is on becoming a prominent, hyperlocal real estate agent by participating in community events, supporting local businesses, and engaging with the local population. Ultimately, the most effective way to receive positive reviews is by consistently delivering top-quality customer service. Satisfied clients are more likely to leave favorable feedback, which further enhances my online reputation and benefits both my clients and my real estate business.

When clients choose me as their real estate agent, they benefit from several distinct advantages that set me apart from competitors in the marketplace: Exceptional Industry Knowledge: I have an insatiable appetite for real estate knowledge. I actively engage with multiple educational resources, such as real estate coaches, conventions, and conferences, which ensures that I am always up to date with the latest industry trends and information. Extensive Network: My involvement in organizations like the Medina Chamber of Commerce and the Medina County Economic Development Corporation allows me to build a wide network of connections. This network can be a valuable resource when clients need information or assistance related to the county. Effective Marketing: I go above and beyond to ensure my clients' properties receive the attention they deserve. This includes crafting exceptional listing descriptions, capturing professional photos, and creating videos for listings and communities. My marketing efforts are designed to make properties stand out and attract potential buyers. Reputation and Respect: Over time, I have earned a strong reputation in the community for my professionalism, integrity, and commitment to my clients. This respect not only benefits my clients but also ensures that their listings are taken seriously in the market. Visibility and Outreach: Clients who work with me benefit from my active involvement in various local and regional meetings, conventions, and organizations. This not only enhances my visibility but also enables me to effectively market their properties and get the word out to a wide audience. In summary, choosing me as their real estate agent offers clients the advantages of unparalleled knowledge, local expertise, an extensive network, effective marketing, a respected reputation, and a robust outreach strategy. These qualities combine to provide a superior real estate experience and a competitive edge in the market.